The effects of light-to-moderate alcohol consumption on the cognitive function of community nondemented male elderly: A cohort study

Abstract

Aim. To investigate the effects of light-to-moderate drinking on the cognitive function of the elderly in a large elderly community cohort. Although heavy drinking is linked with impaired brain functions, the effects of light-to-moderate drinking on the cognitive function of the elderly are still controversial. Methods. A total of 1469 nondemented elderly men from 15 research centers in 8 cities and provinces were included and divided into two groups: Drinking (531 subjects) and nondrinking (938 subjects). Cognitive functions were assessed by the Beijing version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) at baseline and one-year followup. Results. There was no difference in total cognitive scores between the light-to-moderate drinking and nondrinking groups at baseline and follow-up. Nonalcohol users performed better naming and abstraction function at baseline and better naming function at follow-up. There was no difference in cognitive performance decline and new-onset dementia rates at follow-up. Conclusions. Light-to-moderate alcohol consumption had no significant impact on the overall cognitive function and the risk of dementia in elderly men.